How To Set Ideal GMC Tire Pressure

Though it plays a critical role in vehicle performance, tire pressure is an often overlooked aspect of vehicle maintenance. When the tire pressure is at the recommended Pound Per Square Inch (PSI), you will experience a silky-smooth ride, optimal engine performance and tires that last longer.

If the tire pressure is too low, you will experience poor handling, especially around corners, your GMC will consume more fuel, and your tires will wear easily. You will also be more prone to blowouts. On the other hand, if tire pressure is too high, you will experience a bumpier ride because the tires are more sensitive to irregularities on the road. You may also notice poor handling and unusual tire wear, including bubbling. Furthermore, extremely high tire pressure and high temperature put your tire at risk of exploding.

The tires that come with your GMC will most likely have a psi rating on the side to show the highest pressure the tire can manage. The issue is that many people mistake this rating for the recommended pressure.

However, the recommended tire pressure in your GMC can be found on the sticker located inside your driver's side door frame. In many cases, the recommended tire pressure for your front tires may differ from that for your rear tires.

Whenever the tire pressure in any of your tires drops to 25% below the recommended psi, the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) light will turn on in your instrument cluster or your heads-up display. You can easily check the pressure in your tires with a stick, dial, or digital tire pressure gauge.

Setting Ideal Tire Pressure

If the gauge indicates a tire pressure lower than the recommended psi, you can use a portable air compressor to inflate your tire to meet the recommended tire pressure. Most portable air compressors can plug into the power outlets (or cigarette lighter) in your GMC. Ensure you buy an air compressor that can inflate to your GMC's recommended tire pressures.

Once your air compressor is plugged into a power outlet, you can plug the end to your tire's valve and inflate until you your tire feels solid. You can then use any tire gauges mentioned above to confirm when your tire has reached the recommended pressure level.

If the pressure is not yet up to the recommended level, plug the air compressor and repeat the process until the pressure is ideal. If, on the other hand, the pressure has risen above the recommended psi, use a flat-head screwdriver or similar tool to push the nipple on the valve of your tire, measure the pressure level with the gauge and repeat as required until you reach the ideal tire pressure.

Get your replacement tires at GMC Danver

If you live in the Danver area and want to buy original tires to replace your old, worn-out tires, you should check out our GMC Danver motor dealership. Let us be your trusted source for durable original tires that will last longer and deliver a smooth ride. We offer competitive prices on tires of all sizes so you can be sure you will get maximum value for your hard-earned money.  Visit our showroom today.